What is L-methylfolate?

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L-methylfolate is a synthetic version of folate, a form of vitamin B that occurs naturally in many foods, states Drugs.com. L-methylfolate is used as an additive in medical foods and supplements used to treat folate deficiency or mental health conditions associated with folate deficiency, including schizophrenia and major depressive disorder.

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L-methylfolate is commonly used to supplement the diet of individuals who exhibit problems related to folate deficiency, such as anemia, according to Drugs.com, and it is a key ingredient in prenatal vitamins, as folate can help prevent spinal cord birth defects. Folate is needed to create healthy cells, especially red blood cells. Conditions that can cause low folate levels include pregnancy, alcoholism, liver disease, kidney dialysis and poor diet.